Chaos and confusion marred Jamhuri day celebrations in Meru after supporters of rival political leaders clashed, disrupting the event.
Supporters allied to Meru governor Peter Munya and Senator Kiraitu Murungi were caught up in a war of words and show of might as the two leaders jostled to show who was in charge of the festivities.
The celebrations, held at Meru Polytechnic, were cut short after the governor, senator and county commissioner demanded to inspect the marching parade and to have the national anthem played for each of them.
Supporters of Mr.Murungi started walking out of the grounds when Mr. Munya’s advisor, Bishop John Ataya, stood to pray for the event. There was physical confrontation between the bishop and the Deputy County Commissioner, when they jostled for the microphone to determine who would speak first.
Confusion continued when the senator, Mr. Murungi was left out of the sitting arrangements and his handlers had to look for alternative seating.
Mr Munya and Mr Murungi are embroiled in a fierce political contest for the Meru gubernatorial post in 2017.Senator Murungi accuses Mr Munya's administration of embezzling funds in the name of development.